Piedras Blancas Realignment 

EA: 05-49280

CRP:  SLO-001-PM 64/R67.2

CCA Date: 05/1/2018

Route 1 was realigned up to 475 feet inland to protect the highway from coastal bluff erosion caused by wind, waves, storms, and tides, including the construction of three creek bridges to minimize impacts to wetlands and riparian habitat.  Coordination with multiple government agencies, the Hearst Corporation, utility companies, and interest groups contributed to the project's success. Restoration of the old highway included contour grading to blend the roadway with the natural topography, removal of rock revetment along the beach to replenish sand supply, as well as culvert removal and grading to open creek channels.  In addition, a permeable sub-base was installed under the road in several locations to maintain hydrologic connectivity.  Topsoil was collected, stockpiled, and reused to revegetate disturbed areas, and locally collected native seed was used for erosion control. Mitigation efforts included restoring wetlands and coastal prairie grasslands, planting native shrubs to screen roadside-built features, goat grazing for vegetation management, and allocating funding for the California Coastal Trail project.